How to Remove Psoriasis Scales
Psoriasis is a skin disease that affects the speed of skin cell development 1. It often creates thick silvery scales accompanied by dryness, itching and redness. The scalp and most areas of skin can be sites for psoriasis 1. Most people with psoriasis experience chronic flare-ups that may have a specific trigger. The Mayo Clinic points out that psoriasis can be triggered by things like infection or stress. When psoriasis cannot be prevented its symptoms can be treated. There are many methods of treatment, some of which focus on removing the build-up of scales.
Cover the area affected by psoriasis with a thick moisturizer or emollient. There are many prescription and over-the-counter products specifically made for psoriasis 1. Wrap the area with plastic wrap or put a shower cap over your scalp before bed. Trapping the body heat with the moisturizer will help prepare the scales for removal.
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Pour a generous splash of bath oils and a few handfuls of oatmeal or Epsom salts into a warm bath. Remove the plastic and soak in the tub for 15 to 20 minutes. Gently rub the area to remove the scales toward the end of the bath. When treating psoriasis of the scalp, apply a specially formulated shampoo to the scalp. Gently massage it into the hair and skin and rinse thoroughly.
Dry off from the bath. Comb your hair to remove lingering scales. Apply a moisturizer to your body to keep the scales or areas of psoriasis well hydrated.
Tips
Avoid very hot showers or baths, as this can further dry the skin.
Try other over-the-counter psoriasis products, including salicylic acid, to scrub off the scales.
Request a prescription-strength cream or cleanser from your doctor to treat stubborn scales.
Spend a few minutes in direct sunlight to slow the growth of new scales.
Warnings
Do not rub or tear the scales off vigorously, as it will only further irritate the skin.
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References
- Psoriasis: Psoriasis and Scaling Disease
- National Institute on Aging. Skin care and Aging. Updated October 1, 2017.
- Farage MA, Miller KW, Elsner P, Maibach HI. Characteristics of the aging skin. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle). 2013;2(1):5-10. doi:10.1089/wound.2011.0356
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- National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriasis statistics.
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- National Institute on Aging. Depression and older adults. Updated May 1, 2017.
- Cohen BE, Martires KJ, Ho RS. Psoriasis and the risk of depression in the US population: National health and nutrition examination survey 2009-2012. JAMA Dermatol. 2016;152(1):73-79. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2015.3605
- Ceovic R, Mance M, Bukvic Mokos Z, et al. Psoriasis: female skin changes in various hormonal stages throughout life—puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Biomed Res Int. 2013;2013:571912. doi:10.1155/2013/571912
- Reus TL, Brohem CA, Schuck DC, et al. Revisiting the effects of menopause on the skin: Functional changes, clinical studies, in vitro models and therapeutic alternatives. Mech Ageing Dev. 2020 Jan;185:111193. doi: 10.1016/j.mad.2019.111193
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Sarah Harding has written stacks of research articles dating back to 2000. She has consulted in various settings and taught courses focused on psychology. Her work has been published by ParentDish, Atkins and other clients. Harding holds a Master of Science in psychology from Capella University and is completing several certificates through the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association.